Apple's iOS 18 update enables free satellite communication via iMessage or SMS on iPhone 14 and newer models.
iOS 18 update replicates features found in popular hiking apps within Apple Maps app.
Satellite messaging service currently available only in the US.
In a groundbreaking development, Apple's latest iOS 18 update allows for free communication via iMessage or SMS using satellite on iPhone 14 and newer models. This update not only enables users to contact anyone, including friends and family members, through satellite messaging but also marks Apple's efforts to improve its satellite capabilities in the market for outdoor communication devices. Unlike dedicated satellite communication devices like Garmin, however, iPhones are not as durable in harsh outdoor conditions.
The iOS 18 update will also replicate features found in popular hiking apps, such as AllTrails, within Apple's own Maps app. This move towards making desired features more accessible and affordable could potentially lead to safer hiking experiences for users.
While the satellite messaging service is currently available only in the US, Apple's continuous improvements have attracted outdoor enthusiasts who are considering upgrading to newer iPhone models for this feature. However, it is essential to note that satellite communication devices like Garmin still hold an advantage in terms of durability and reliability in backcountry conditions.
In conclusion, Apple's latest iOS 18 update has expanded the capabilities of iPhones as backcountry tools by adding satellite communication features. This development not only improves the overall user experience but also pushes competition with dedicated satellite communication device manufacturers like Garmin. However, users must consider factors such as durability and reliability when choosing between smartphones and dedicated devices for their outdoor communications needs.
Apple will shift its satellite messaging strategy from emergency services to regular services with the release of iOS 18 software platform this fall.
iOS 18 will provide non-emergency satellite messaging services to an estimated 375 million iPhone users globally who own satellite-capable phones.
Apple first launched satellite messaging with its iPhone 14 in 2022 and supports direct links to Globalstar’s satellites.
Globalstar is working to expand its satellite operations and could eventually have as many as 3,080 satellites over the next few years.
Accuracy
Communications over satellites may not be limited to emergencies only.
Deception
(50%)
The article contains selective reporting as it only mentions Apple's plans to expand its satellite messaging services beyond emergencies and does not mention other companies' similar plans. It also implies that Apple will have a user-friendly integration with its satellite service, but this is an opinion and not a fact.
Consumers may utilize this new functionality much more than most believe.
We suspect that Apple’s integration ... will likely be more user friendly than T-Mobile/Starlink’s service.
Apple’s latest iOS 18 update allows for free communication via iMessage or SMS using satellite on iPhone 14 and newer.
The update enables users to contact anyone, not just emergency services, through satellite messaging.
Apple is improving its satellite capabilities to compete in the market for outdoor communication devices.
iPhone’s satellite feature saved Grayson Haver Currin from a crisis by allowing him to contact emergency services when separated from his wife on the Continental Divide Trail.
Accuracy
Apple's latest iOS 18 update allows for free communication via iMessage or SMS using satellite on iPhone 14 and newer.
The upcoming iOS 18 update will allow iPhone 14, 15, and forthcoming 16 users to send texts or SOS signals to loved ones and emergency responders.
Apple’s satellite communicator feature is not as durable as dedicated satellite communicators like Garmin’s inReach Mini 2.
The author has had multiple iPhones break due to their lack of durability for outdoor activities.
Accuracy
The upcoming iOS 18 update will allow iPhone users to send texts or SOS signals to loved ones and emergency responders.
Apple's satellite communicator feature is not as durable as dedicated satellite communicators like Garmin's inReach Mini 2.
Communications over satellites may not be limited to emergencies only.
Deception
(50%)
The author expresses his personal opinion that iPhones are not rugged enough to replace satellite communicators like the Garmin inReach Mini 2 for outdoor activities. He shares anecdotes about breaking multiple iPhones and praises the durability of his Garmin device. This is an example of selective reporting, as the author only mentions details that support his position against using iPhones for satellite communication.
I've thrown it into rivers, run it over with a motorcycle, dropped it into a mud puddle, ran it over with my Can-Am, attached it to countless packs on motorcycle rides and hunting hikes, dropped it, smashed it, washed it,
Fallacies
(80%)
The author commits an appeal to personal experience fallacy by stating that his Garmin saved his life and implying that iPhones are not reliable based on his past experiences with them. He also makes a hasty generalization when he states 'iPhones are just not made for those activities.'
My Garmin inReach Mini 2 saved my life.
I've personally gone through too many iPhones to entrust my safety in something designed for normal, non-edge-case human beings just living their lives in the safety of home.
iPhones are just not made for those activities.
Bias
(10%)
The author expresses a clear preference for the Garmin inReach Mini 2 satellite communicator over the upcoming iPhone feature, stating that iPhones are not rugged enough for outdoor use and have broken easily for him in the past. He also mentions that he has personally relied on his Garmin to save his life.
I've thrown it into rivers, run it over with a motorcycle, dropped it into a mud puddle, ran it over with my Can-Am, attached it to countless packs on motorcycle rides and hunting hikes, dropped it, smashed it, washed it...
